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Biopsy
A biopsy describes a medical procedure that involves removing cells or tissues for closer examination. Microscopic examination by a pathologist, for example, is typical. Chemical analysis is another means for examining the biopsied specimen. Biopsies typically are conducted to help determine the cause of a disease when there is uncertainty in terms of the extent and nature of the illness. For instance, tumors identified from radiographic scans are frequently biopsied to determine whether they are benign or malignant.
There are several types of biopsies that are performed by physicians on a routine basis. A bone marrow biopsy samples a small amount of marrow, usually from the hip, to diagnose illnesses such as leukemia (1). A colposcopy, or cervical biopsy, is useful to determine the cause of an abnormal Pap smear. An endoscopic biopsy samples internal organs through the mouth, anus, or skin incision. Excisional biopsies remove entire lesions for analysis such as for the examination of breast lumps. Small lumps in muscle or other connective tissue may be sampled by an incisional biopsy that requires only a small sample. Conditions that affect the liver or thyroid can be biopsied by a slender hypodermic needle. Different forms of skin conditions are often diagnosed following a punch biopsy. Finally, tumors arising from brain cancer can be localized and sampled using information from a stereotactic biopsy.
Although usually rare, there are complications that can occur during and/or following a biopsy procedure. These include: excessive bleeding, infection at the biopsied site, damage to nearby organs, and unusual numbness of the skin from anesthesia used. However, it is normal to experience at least some pain around the biopsy site and can be controlled by prescribed pain-relieving medication. Biopsy specimens once obtained are affixed in a preservative, set in wax, and thinly sliced by the examining pathologist. Different dyes are applied to the sliced specimen to highlight any abnormalities. According to the results, a diagnosis and treatment plan can be decided upon.
- Dirnhofer, S. et al., "Diagnostic problems in follow-up bone marrow biopsies of patients treated for acute and chronic leukaemias and MDS". Pathobiology; 74:115-20, 2007.
- van Deurzen, C.H., "Is there an indication for sentinel node biopsy in patients with ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast? A review". Eur. J. Cancer; 43:993-1001, 2007.